Hexa Chrome-Free Passivation - Experience as Part of ELV Implementation

摘要

Hexavalent chromium Cr(VI) is recognized as a known human carcinogen via inhalation. This is banned to be used in Corrosion Protective Coatings as per End-Life-of-Vehicle regulation (ELV) 2000/53/EC effective July '07 in EU. Traditionally all automotive metallic components which are Zinc-plated are passivated with a thin Chromate layer to add to its brightness and protect it from premature corrosion. These Chromate coatings (or passivation) are generally Hexavalent chromium-based and available in four grades: clear, yellow, olive drab, and black.